PM: New Constitution drafting committee to be formed

Written by Writer on Saturday, October 4th, 2008

PM: New Constitution drafting committee to be formed

BANGKOK, Oct 3 (TNA) — Leaders of Thailand’s legislative and executive branches, together with the main opposition party, on Friday agreed to allow every sector to participate in amending Article 291 of the 2007 Constitution, written during the country’s administration installed by the September 2006 coupmakers, designed to end political turbulence in the country.

At a meeting attended by Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, opposition Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, House Speaker Chai Chidchob and Senate Speaker Prasopsuk Boondej which was held at Parliament, the leaders agreed that the Constitution’s Article 291 be amended with the aim to allow for the formation of a Constitution Drafting Committee.

“The atmosphere of the meeting was very good and everybody agreed to resolve political crisis,” said Mr. Somchai. “This method is the best way and could be acceptable by the people.”

Emphasising that there was “no hidden agenda or bringing in our men” to amend the article, Mr. Somchai said his government would not become involved in amending other articles of the charter.

He indicated that should be done by another process.

The cabinet earlier this week agreed that amending Article 291 would be included in the government’s policy statement which is scheduled to be presented to Parliament next week.

Meanwhile, Mr. Abhisit said House Speaker Chai has called a meeting next Monday to be attended by leaders of every political party and the Senate Speaker.

Formation of a Constitution Drafting Committee will be based on previous models set up in 1995-1996 and in 2007, Mr. Abhisit said. notin g that he expected that conclusions would likely be made during a meeting next Monday.

He said the Prime Minister had agreed to talk with members under the ruling People Power Party so that they would fully understand why the charter has to be amended. (TNA)